Islanders News

FANS MEET BAILEY

The Islanders' first overall pick in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, center Joshua Bailey, left the podium in Ottawa and headed straight to the back area to meet his newest fans – those watching back on Long Island at the Nassau Coliseum. Connected live via satellite, Islanders Draft Party host and ESPN's John Buccigross spoke to Bailey.

"I had no idea where I was going," admitted Bailey. "I thought New York was a possibility. I'm glad to be part of the Islanders organization.

When asked by Buccigross how he would describe his game, Bailey responded: "I consider myself a two-way playmaker with an offensive upside. I like to consider myself a complete player, who likes to make the players around him better. I'm a pass first guy. My full intention is to make the Islanders next year, but I will play wherever best fits the organization. There's a great group of guys in Windsor and it's a great team I love playing for. If I don't make the Islanders next season, hopefully I will down the road."

Buccigross asked Bailey who he grew up idolizing.

"Probably Yzerman," said Bailey. "He's a great leader, along with Joe Sakic. Those were my two favorites."

As for Bailey's choice for a jersey number...

"I wear number 89 right now, but I know Comrie already wears that," said Bailey. I'll wear anything. I'd be happy to make the team. I was talking to my parents and telling them how great the guys are with the Islanders. The scouts were really nice and I'm really excited to go to New York."